Code Of Ethics In Respiratory Care

Most healthcare professions have their own professional organization that governs their code of conduct, their code of ethics, as well as their code of practice. The American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) is the governing body for Respiratory Therapist (RT) throughout the country. The AARC influences everything from the education provided during accreditation to the bylaws that govern the practice of respiratory care . Joining the AARC allows RTs to deepen their knowledge, develop professionally, become the force of change, as well as become leaders and mentors in their field.1 For most this enough of a reason to join, however a member must be able to give back to the organization. A member must become the voice of

The most notable way is the influence a working practitioner can have on Respiratory Therapist code of practice; their hands on approach can help configure how certain healthcare procedures are performed. Joining the AARC would allow RTs to use the AARC’s social media platform as a way to voice their ideas to their fellow peers around the country. This social media feature permits RTs to give back to their professional community by sharing their knowledge and mentoring other professionals.2 In a profession that is growing, networking can hold the key to making a name for yourself. Coupled with the ability to network, practitioners are granted the ability to not only connect with other therapist, but to also expand their pool of knowledge. The field of medicine is always changing, and so, the education that we received in school may not be sufficient enough to keep up with the changing times. The AARC provides RTs with the latest information on everything Respiratory Care relate through conferences and journals.3 With this information, RTs are better prepared to not only serve their patients but also provide them with the most up-to-date

The knowledge that I would be able to obtain through the AARC would allow me to not only educate my peers, but also accelerate my abilities as a practitioner. I want to be able to ensure that all patients are able to receive the most updated and well-rounded care. Becoming a mentor would also allow me to become a valuable resource to those who need advice or just someone to voice their ideas to. However, my passion lies with being the force of change. Since 2000, there has been over 200,000 students denied college aid. Yet, even with the new laws put into place to allow even previous drug offenders to apply for student aid, it has not aided more students to pay for college.4 Currently, there are only five scholarships available for Respiratory Therapy students, only three of which are available to undergraduate students. In my career I want to be able to see that number grow, my goal is to set up numerous scholarship opportunities for those in need. Respiratory Care is such a rewarding field, and I want to be able to ensure that all students, regardless of their financial disposition, are able to experience what it is